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  #45  
Old December 3rd 16, 08:10 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
marco
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Posts: 12
Default GP Gliders GP 14 Velo has finally FLOWN!!!

Lower weight is not impossible. Look at the following pictu http://esoaring.com/sparrowonehand.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windwa...ce_SparrowHawk shows the full spec. Granted: it is only 11 mtr but 13.5 mtr could come in rather lightweight as well.
And with the electric power this for me is a very good package. I, as a non competition pilot, would be more than happy with this performance package. Easy to rig and decent performance. I believe it to be one of the better aims in creating a new future for our sport, out of the way of heavier and more expensive planes. The only thing I am struggling with is the certification as ultralight against a formal certification. But we have seen the long time it took Jonker to get a European license. New entries to the constructor market, at least in Europe, looks to take lots of time and probably money. A short-cut is a possible way out.

Finally: The package has a higher weight allowance than the 13.5 mtr FAI allowance is, "clipping its wings" even before the glider gets airborn. I am still unsure on how the rules will be explained in Hungary. Personally I have not made up my mind yet on the GPglider but it is high on my short list.

On a side note: I would be curious though is a 15 mtr ultralight sets a record with a weight higher than allowed as a ultralight (which has European weight restrictions in itself) but perfectly OK in a normal 15 mtr class. It feels really messy as an outsider......